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Labradorite Gemstone Properties

Labradorite is a beautiful semi-precious feldspar mineral with a stunning feature: it's full of color and flash!

The arrangement of atoms in the the internal structure of labradorite produces the bright play of color when it interacts with light. ​In the shade the stone appears gray or white, but when hit by sunlight the stone flashes a blue to rainbow iridescent sheen.

Labradorite is prized not only for its beauty but also for powerful metaphysical and healing properties. Labradorite is thought of as a stone of change and may help bring perseverance through times of uncertainty. If you are interested in labradorite gemstone properties, read on to learn more about the structure, varieties, and uses of labradorite. ​

Labradorite in action

What Creates Labradorite's Colorful Flash?

Labradorite is a plagioclase feldspar mineral which displays a unique play of colors in direct light. This property is only found in labradorite so they named the effect "labradorescence". Very high grade labradorite often features a full rainbow from blue to gold and is called spectrolite. When labradorite has a white matrix or base rock it is called rainbow moonstone (more on that later). ​

​Labradorite is made of common elements, but it is how the atoms are arranged that create it's beautiful interactions with light. All minerals have atoms which are arranged in a crystalline structure, but the layers in the internal structure of labradorite allow it to reflect certain colors. When hit by the sun, the stone lights up with a pearly blue to rainbow iridescence. In dim lighting it is dull gray or white, hiding its true beauty.

Polished labradorite and rainbow moonstones

Labradorite Uses and Metaphysical Properties

​Labradorite has been used for many centuries for its beauty and healing properties. It is generally cut and polished, which helps brings out the colorful flashes. It is made into beads, cabochons, ornamental objects or even building stone. ​My parents just remodeled their bathroom, and got a giant labradorite slab for their bathroom counter-top instead of traditional marble!

Labradorite also is known for certain metaphysical healing properties. Labradorite is thought of as a stone of change. It may be useful to help bring strength and perseverance during significant events. It is also believed to reduce fears and insecurities while replenishing faith in one’s self and trust in the world around us. The flashes of color across the stone can help to remind one that things change, but strength is within.

More about Rainbow Moonstone...

The name rainbow moonstone is confusing, since another group of stones are also known as moonstone. True moonstones have an iridescent pearly sheen but lack the colored flashes of rainbow moonstone. True moonstone and labradorite are actually closely related as well. They are both part of the feldspar group of minerals, which also includes a naturally sparkly gem called sunstone. The feldspar family has some pretty good looking members! ​

True moonstone

Rainbow moonstone

Rainbow moonstone is actually used more commonly in jewelry than true moonstone. Due to its popularity people often erroneously use the term "moonstone" when referring to rainbow moonstone. Rainbow moonstone is associated with the moon and feminine energy. Rainbow moonstone has been found in pieces dating back to the Roman Empire. Since rainbow moonstone is a variety of labradorite, all of labradorite's properties apply to it as well.

Find the perfect labradorite necklace or earrings for you in the Storefront at Kosmic Krystals.

A New Collection of Labradorite Jewely is Coming Soon!

A whole new selection of labradorite wire work jewelry from Kosmic Krystals will be unveiled by May 2017.​Join the Kosmic Krystals' Community to be notified when the collection release date is set so you don't miss out. As a community member you will also receive early access to shop the collection.

Thanks for sharing this wonderful information related to rainbow moonstone and its properties. It is really helpful for the people who want to know about rainbow moonstone, its uses and are looking to buy it through the online store.

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Kellie Roussos

A nature nerd jewelry designer with a passion for fantasy and science.